“If you’re going to put your purse in the cart, never let that purse leave your eyes,” said Alpharetta police Officer Jason Muenzer. “If you’ve got to look at some merchandise, keep that purse with you.”

Bergmann said it’s been quite a headache contacting all of her creditors. The thieves also took her Social Security information, so she’s concerned about identity theft.

“I felt like I was violated and left with a real eerie feeling about not being safe at anything anymore,” she said.

Kroger sent Petchenik a statement about what happened.

“Kroger is committed to the safety of our customers and associates,” said Felix Turner in an email. “We are cooperating with the Alpharetta Police Department as they investigate the incident and will provide any assistance we can."